Dear Editor,
There was, in Parliament, quite a bit of discussion and disagreement on how contracts are being awarded. Many allegations voiced implied that contracts are being given to family members of the Government. Although Guyana may be best described as a place where three degrees of separation is more fitting than the usual six degrees of separation seen elsewhere, we must still strive to have in place strong anti-corruption laws that are easily and effectively enforced.
As a preventive measure, the barring of direct family members of Government officials from bidding on contracts in the sectors in which they have direct responsibility or significant influence is an important first step that should be in place to help ensure the best people get the job. This would also prevent kickbacks to Government officials who use their influence to get the contracts awarded to family members. In addition, the finances and assets of each Member of Parliament should be audited annually and undergo public scrutiny. Given the financial attractiveness of the Oil Sector, and the extensive growth that is occurring, safeguarding against corruption should be a high priority of Parliament’s agenda.
The Auditor General’s Office would have to play a significant role in scrutinising the way business is done in the sector. Many may argue that it is a sector that should be open to all, regardless of family connections or influence. As tempting as this may be, the cry of corruption would be strong if that occurs. An alternative solution would be to ensure a competitive and transparent blind bidding process, in which the competitive bids are reviewed without knowledge of the company’s name and shareholders. Those involved in managing the bidding process should also be required to have their finances audited and available for public scrutiny. Their direct family members should also be prevented from entering bids which they review. This would help prevent the approach currently in place, where who you know is more important than what you know.
As for the punitive measures, the fines levied on Government officials and Government employees caught participating in corrupt acts need to be substantial, and should result in resignation, seizure of assets, imprisonment, and the person being barred from working in the Government. This should help deter corruption from occurring.
These are just some initial thoughts on preventive and punitive/deterrent measures that can help set the nation on a path where corruption in Government is significantly reduced and ultimately eliminated. We must move forward as a united Parliament in the fight against corruption in Government. If both sides of the house are serious about eliminating corruption in Government, they would work together to ensure these steps are effectively implemented. The nation would become stronger as corruption is reduced and eventually eliminated, and we would also have more funds available for efficient use for our country’s development. It is now up to us, as one people, to decide to commit to a clean and clear path forward that will help this generation lay a solid foundation for our country’s growth in financial development, physical development, and, most importantly, the development of our people’s character.
Our nation’s integrity demands it, and our nation’s children would thank us for it.
Comrades, we have come a long way, but our journey has just begun. May it be on a solid footing, so that we may not lose the progress being made.
Best regards,
Jamil Changlee
